Chance to find out more about Littlehampton and East Preston Family Information Service

West Sussex County Council has set up events to highlight available child care and help parents claim the free childcare they are entitled to when their child is three.

Families will be able to drop in and find out more about the Family Information Service.

The events take place on Tuesday, September 11, from 10am to 11.30am, at the East Preston Children and Family Centre, in St Mary’s Drive, East Preston, and from 12.30pm to 2.30pm, at the Littlehampton Children and Family Centre, at the Wickbourne Centre, in Clun Road, Littlehampton.

Early education

Councillor Peter Evans said: “This event is the ideal chance for parents to come along and visit their local children and family centre and find out more about the Family Information Service.

“Childcare isn’t just for parents who work, early education is really important to all.

“Access to good quality early education and care can help improve a child’s confidence and social skills, help with language development, improve literacy skills, increase levels of concentration, and help with behavioural issues.”

Entitlement

From the start of the school term after their third birthday, every child is entitled to 570 hours of free childcare a year.

The Family Information Service offers an online facility that allows parents to search for childcare across the county.

The service also provides general information for parents or carers of children and young people aged from nought to 19 years.

The online search facility has details of many activities such as toddler groups, toy libraries and children and family centres.

Parents can also find details for support services on issues including sleeping problems, speech and language therapy, money and welfare benefits, teen pregnancy, bullying and anti-social behaviour.

Anyone who would like more information can visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/family, call 01243 777807 or email [email protected].